Dense Breasts and BSGI

Shar1

I had my first mammogram at 40 and was told that I have dense breasts but there was no problem found.  Two weeks ago I had my 2nd annual mammogram and they called me back for a lateral spot compression test on the right breast.  The compression test was similar to a mammogram and did not provide a clear view of the area of concern so they sent me immediately for an ultrasound.  The radiologist did the ultrasound himself and said that there is a dense area very close to the chest wall and that is why the mammogram could not see it well.  He said that he does not think it is cancer but it is not normal to have dense tissue so close to the chest wall and my mammogram has changed over the past year.  I have been scheduled for a BSGI molecular breast imaging test next Thursday.  This test is supposed to be good for women with dense breasts and unclear mammograms and is similar to an MRI.  I was just wondering if anyone has had this test?

mawhinney

From what I have read BSCI molecular breast imaging is a fairly new procedure and not currently widely available. Studies have shown it to pick up very small questionable areas that were not readily seen on MRI.  Good luck!

Shar1

Hello all!  I am sorry that it took me so long to post information on my BSGI/MBI test.  I am getting married this month and between wedding plans and health issues I have just lost track of time.

I did have the BSGI/MBI test and I wanted to share my experience so everyone would have a better idea of what this test involved.  I had the procedure at a local breast center and it took only about 30 minutes for the test and I was there for about 1 hour total.  I received an injection of a tracer that accumulates in the cancer cells and makes them "light up" on the computer screen.  The test was similar to the mammogram except you are sitting down while they do the images.  They took three images of each breast and they showed no evidence of cancer in my breasts.  I do, however, have an issue that requires further invesstigation--probably calcification on a rib or a bone spur-- but not cancer.  The test was extremely easy and I would definately recommend it to anyone that is not comfortable with the results received from their mammogram or ultrasound and wants to ease their mind.

 Right before my test, I did have the opportunity to meet a patient that had a cancerous lump that did not show up on her mammogram and was found by the BSGI procedure.  She was incredibly inspiring and really made me thankful that this test was available to me.

 Best wishes to everyone!